Sage Thiru-valluvar
"The Bard of Universal Man"
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Chapter - 59 : Detectives
 

Introductory Note

Rev. G. U. Pope - Spies, or scouts. The commentator says: ‘Enemies, strangers, and friends alike must be watched.’ Compare with Manu vii. 122, 153, 154.

Translation(s)

These two – the renowned code and spies – let the king confide in these as eyes.

 

Translation(s)

It is the duty of the king to learn with speed – each day every deed of every subject.

 

Translation(s)

The king who spies by spies but does not weigh things they bring, nothing can give victory to that unwary king.

Explanation

King must be wary in accepting what the spies bring. He must weigh their versions as described in following verses.

Translation(s)

They are trustworthy spies who watch all these – his officers, his friends, his enemies.

Explanation

King has to have a watch on his enemies as well as friend as also his officers in that order.

Translation(s)

Trustworthy spies are those who have unsuspecting mien (look, bearing, manner), eyes fearing none, and who let out no secret.

 

Translation(s)

A spy, making way through every hindrance as monk or devotee, must display a watchful mind for whatever men do.

Explanation

Chk meaning

Translation(s)

A spy must search each hidden matter out and must render full report free from doubt.

Explanation

He should investigate thoroughly to ascertain the facts beyond reasonable doubt.

Translation(s)

In spying with spies, it is well to test things one (spy) tells with other spies.

 

Translation(s)

Contrive it so that one spy must not see another (spy), and things confirmed by three (spies) you know as truth.

 

Translation(s)

Do not reward a trustworthy spy in others’ sight or all mystery will come to light.

 

Summary Note

This chapter emphasizes the importance of spies and provides guidelines on how to use their services.

View from North-East,
Thiruvalluvar Memorial (133 Feet, 7000 Tonnes), Kanyakumari, India
Credit: Arul Jegadish, Flickr

References